Help us review how SEND services work together

The government has asked every area in the country to review how well different organisations work together to support children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).  

We want to hear from young people, parents or carers, professionals and others involved, so that this picture reflects real experience in our area.  The form is called "SEND Partnership Maturity Assessment".

This is about the SEND system, not about individual children or families. It will not affect the support any child or young person receives now, including any Education, Health and Care Plan.

Why are we doing this?

The reason we are doing this is that the government is working on longer‑term improvements to SEND support across the country. This includes a stronger focus on inclusion, clearer national plans, and more investment over time.  If you would like to read more about the government’s plans for SEND and inclusion, there is an overview on GOV.UK (opens link in a new page)

Every area in England has been asked to look honestly at how organisations work together, and where things can improve locally.

What you’ll be asked to do:

• Complete a short online form (opens link in a new page) 
• Share your view on seven pillars (or areas) of partnership working - please see below for more information. 
• For each area, choose one option:
• Not yet emerging
• Emerging
• Developing
• Maturing

The same questions are being asked in every area.

Further guidance

This guidance document (opens link in a new page, as a PDF) explains the seven pillars and the four options in more detail.  You do not need to read this to take part.  There is enough information on the form to complete it.  The wording on the form comes from the government. 

We will consider your response when creating the final return to government.

You can find the form here: SEND Partnership Maturity Assessment – Online Feedback – Fill in form

Please complete it by: 22 April 2026 - The time for responses is short; this reflects national timescales.

Some organisations and parent carer groups (such as Parents of Carers with Additional Needs or PCAN – the independent, parent led forum in Kirklees) are also giving a response. If you are already sharing your views through one of these routes, you may not need to complete the form as well.  It is your choice.

Thank you for your time and for helping us understand what is working well and what needs to improve.